Dharma and Discovery

Being a Hindu student at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has been a unique journey of self-discovery, resilience, and quiet determination. While university is often seen as a time to explore freedom and immerse oneself in new experiences, for me, it has been about navigating my identity and staying true to my cultural and spiritual values in a space where they sometimes feel out of place.

One of the first hurdles I faced at UTS was food. Growing up in a Hindu household, I’ve always stayed away from chicken, beef, and other meats. But being on campus, surrounded by friends who would casually grab a burger or a chicken wrap at places like UniBros or PappaRich after class, made me realize just how much my diet set me apart. 

I remember one late-night study session where everyone decided to order pizza, and all the options were loaded with meat. Someone quickly offered to add a veggie option just for me, but I felt awkward about being the reason they had to change their order. It’s not that anyone has ever made me feel bad about it—they’ve always been understanding—but moments like that make me feel a little out of sync, like I’m watching from the sidelines even when I’m trying to be part of the group.

Over time, I’ve learned to navigate this by suggesting vegetarian places, like the vegetarian meals at PappaRich, where we can all gather without feeling excluded. It’s about finding balance and being open about my needs, while also making sure I’m part of the social fabric of uni life.

Then there’s the drinking culture. At UTS, like most unis, it feels like every social event is tied to alcohol—pub crawls, end-of-semester parties, or even just casual drinks after class. For me, drinking has never been an option. It’s not that I don’t like the idea of loosening up and having fun; it’s just that my Hindu upbringing has always emphasized staying away from alcohol and other substances. I still remember this one time after an exam when a friend jokingly said, “You’re missing out on the best part of uni!” as they handed me a soda instead of a beer. I laughed it off, but it made me wonder: am I missing out? Sometimes I feel like the odd one out, leaving parties early when everyone starts to get tipsy or declining invites to events that revolve entirely around drinking. But then I think about how staying true to myself has helped me connect with people in other, more meaningful ways—conversations that happen in quiet corners or friendships that don’t need a pub to exist. 

My cultural identity has taught me patience and introspection. It has helped me find power and strength in saying “no,” even when it may feel isolating. Through these experiences, I’ve come to understand that my beliefs and practices are not just rules to follow—they’re a part of my larger sense of self. My culture has shaped how I view the world, from the way I approach relationships and community to how I deal with challenges. It has given me the ability to reflect deeply on my actions, ensuring that I make decisions that align with my values, even in situations where others might not fully understand. While at times it feels like I’m navigating a path that others don’t always see or appreciate, my identity is something I’m proud of and hold close. UTS is a diverse place, but it still has room to grow in supporting students from all walks of life. More inclusive social events, better vegetarian food options, and spaces for open dialogue about cultural differences could make a big difference. 

I believe that by embracing and celebrating these differences, we can create a more inclusive and understanding campus for everyone.

Being Hindu at UTS hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been rewarding in its own way. It has forced me to confront who I really am and what I stand for, and in a university that thrives on innovation and creativity, I’ve learned that staying true to my roots is a type of strength in itself.